Things To Do
in Khutubi
Khutubi (often spelled Hutubi) is a county-level town in northern Xinjiang, China, located in the foothills of the Tianshan range and surrounded by agricultural plains. It serves as a quiet regional hub where Han, Uyghur, and Hui communities interact and where irrigation agriculture and orchards shape the landscape. Visitors will find modest markets, roadside kebab stalls, and easy access to wide, open skies that make for excellent stargazing and landscape photography.
Khutubi is best visited as a calm, off-the-beaten-path complement to nearby Urumqi rather than as a major urban destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient town square, where you can admire the traditional architecture that dates back centuries. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some of the region's famous dumplings. As the morning sun rises, take a stroll through the quaint cobblestone streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of local vendors and artisans.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich history of Khutubi by visiting the local museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits from the area’s past. Afterward, find a cozy spot in a nearby tea house to enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, learning about the significance of tea culture in Chinese society. As the sun begins to dip, explore the nearby markets where you can shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
As twilight falls, head to the riverside promenade for a picturesque view of the illuminated town. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling regional specialties like spicy hot pot or grilled fish. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the river, listening to the gentle sounds of water and the chatter of locals enjoying the evening.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before taking a short drive to the nearest section of the Great Wall. Upon arrival, hike up to one of the less crowded towers and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The crisp morning air invigorates your spirit as you explore the ancient fortifications and learn about their history.
After descending, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic viewpoint, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby hiking trails, where you can encounter local wildlife and stunning landscapes. Don't forget to capture some photographs of the Great Wall snaking through the hills.
Return to Khutubi in the early evening, where you can unwind at a local hot spring resort. Enjoy a soothing soak while watching the sun set behind the mountains, creating a serene atmosphere. For dinner, treat yourself to a fusion restaurant offering modern interpretations of traditional dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.30-1 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with friendly local communities
- Access to scenic Tianshan foothills and wide, open landscapes ideal for photography
- Strong local food culture with affordable, flavorful dishes and fresh fruit
- Low tourist density compared with larger Xinjiang destinations
- Limited English signage and fewer tourist services compared with major cities
- Regional sensitivities mean you should follow local rules and check travel advisories
- Public transport options are limited for reaching remote spots—rentals or guides recommended
- Fewer nightlife and entertainment options compared with nearby Urumqi
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？ (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does this cost?
- "可以拍照吗？ (Kěyǐ pāizhào ma?)" - Can I take a photo?
- "清真吗？ (Qīngzhēn ma?)" - Is this halal?
- "ياخشىمۇسىز (Yaxshimuisiz)" - Hello (Uyghur greeting)
- "رەھمەت (Rähmät)" - Thank you (Uyghur)
Places to Visit in Khutubi
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant daytime activity, colorful produce and characterful portraits—great for candid street photography (ask before photographing people).
Wide vistas of steppe and distant peaks, excellent for sunrise and sunset landscape shots.
Rows of grapevines and drying yards provide textured, seasonal subjects—especially during harvest and raisin-drying season.
Low-light street scenes with steam, grilling smoke and warm tones—good for atmospheric night photography.
Patterns of canals and fields form compelling aerial or panoramic compositions; visit in golden hour for best light.
Food in Khutubi
Khutubi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled, spiced lamb skewers found at night stalls and small restaurants; a must-try and widely available in Khutubi's evening markets.
Must-Try!
A fragrant rice dish cooked with carrots, lamb and spices—served at family-run restaurants and celebratory meals.
Spicy chicken and potato stew with wide hand-pulled noodles—commonly shared at larger tables and popular with groups.
Local round flatbreads baked in clay ovens and fresh yogurt; common breakfast items sold at markets and bakeries.
Baked meat or vegetable pastries with flaky crusts; available at baker stalls and snack shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market where locals buy produce, dried fruits, spices and snacks. Try fresh grapes, raisins, sunflower seeds and hot tea from stall vendors.
A stretch of skewers and grills near the main streets that comes alive after sunset—perfect for sampling chuanr, samsa and grilled vegetables.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting mosques or conservative communities, dress modestly—cover shoulders and avoid revealing clothing. Women may be expected to cover their heads at some religious sites; follow local guidance.
Always request permission before taking portraits, especially of older people or inside religious or private spaces.
Be mindful during meal times and community events—accept invitations politely and try local customs (e.g., communal dining) when offered.
Avoid discussions of sensitive political topics and adhere to signs and instructions at government or security sites; follow local laws and guidance.
Safety
Tipping in Khutubi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected in small towns—service staff rarely rely on tips; rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated but not obligatory. In tourist-oriented or upscale establishments (or for exceptional service or private guides) a small tip is fine.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widespread in urban areas; cash (RMB) remains important in smaller shops, markets and rural areas. Credit cards are less commonly accepted outside larger hotels and supermarkets—carry enough cash for market purchases and rural trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool to mild but often windy—spring brings dust and occasional sandstorms; bring layers and a windproof jacket and plan outdoor shoots on calmer days.
Warm to hot and dry with abundant sunshine—ideal for daytime exploration but expect strong sun and large diurnal temperature swings; bring sun protection and water.
One of the best times to visit: mild weather, clear skies and harvest season in orchards and vineyards; colors can be vivid in late autumn.
Cold with potential snow in the hills; town life slows and some rural roads may be icy—dress warmly and check local travel conditions for rural excursions.
Khutubi at Night
Hiking in Khutubi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of simple trails offering panoramic views of steppe and distant peaks; suitable for half-day hikes and accessible from county outskirts.
Gentle walks through irrigated farmland, vineyards and canals—good for short, scenic excursions and photography.
Open grassland routes ideal for cycling and horseback rides; flat to rolling terrain and wide horizons, best in spring and autumn.
Airports
How to reach Khutubi by plane.
The major regional and international airport serving the Urumqi area — the primary gateway for reaching Khutubi. Ground transport by highway or coach connects the airport to surrounding counties; travel time depends on road conditions and exact location within the county.
Other regional airports in Xinjiang serve different cities; for Khutubi, Urumqi Diwopu is the most practical commercial airport—check connecting bus or train services to the county.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Han residents form a significant portion of the population and are active in agriculture, trade and local administration.
Uyghur communities contribute strongly to the region’s cultural and culinary character, particularly in music, food and markets.
Hui (Muslim Chinese) and other ethnic groups live in the area, often running halal restaurants, shops and small businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional equestrian culture persists in northern Xinjiang, with local opportunities for horseback riding and pastoral-style events.
Soccer is a popular recreational sport across towns and schools; casual matches are common in public fields.
Basketball courts in towns are popular among youth and are a common social sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khutubi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (noodle dishes, breads, vegetable stews, and egg dishes), but many main dishes center on lamb and mutton—ask for vegetable versions and look for teahouse fare and vegetable-based soups.
Halal food is widely available due to local Muslim communities; many restaurants are halal-certified or follow halal practices.
Avoid many breads and noodle-based dishes; rice- and meat-based dishes are better options, but always communicate restrictions clearly—bring translations if necessary.